Two people die from soil-borne bacteria during Far North Queensland wet season
Two people have died from the soil-borne bacterial disease melioidosis in Far North Queensland during the region's relentless wet season, which saw massive flooding and heavy rainfall totals.
The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service has recorded 30 cases since January 1, including two fatalities.
The number of cases is above average for this time of year, says Dr Jacqui Murdoch, the director of Tropical Public Health Services.
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We've had a bit of a delayed start to the wet season here in Cairns, so it's essential for people to be aware that diseases like melioidosis are still a risk for a bit longer than usual.
Melioidosis is a serious disease that's commonly found in groundwater and soil, and it can be fatal in around 20 per cent of cases where treatment is received.
Early detection and treatment are absolutely crucial.
Melioidosis is a rare tropical disease caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei, which is often found in soil and water in northern Australia and parts of South-East Asia, and occasionally in southern Queensland.
It's found in the soil and comes to the surface as mud during the wet season in Far North Queensland, which runs from November to March.
Most instances occur after heavy rain or flooding events.
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The disease can get into the body through cuts and sores, or by breathing it in or drinking contaminated water.
It generally doesn't spread from humans or animals.
After being exposed, people can become unwell a few days to many years later.
"Melioidosis is pretty rare in fit adults, and hardly ever seen in kids, but it can crop up in people with diabetes, kidney issues, lung issues and blokes on medication that knocks their immune system down," Murdoch said.
Sufferers of acute Melioidosis may experience symptoms such as a fever, cough and trouble breathing; the effects can be quite severe and often need hospital treatment with antibiotics.
Sometimes the disease appears as superficial skin infections or abscesses in different parts of the body.
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Even though there isn't a vaccine to stop melioidosis, people who get the illness can get heavy doses of antibiotics for at least three months.
Queensland Health is advising people to take precautions to prevent infections, such as staying indoors when it's raining and not going to work, managing their diabetes, and reducing their intake of alcohol.
"When you head outside, make sure you've got protective footwear and gloves on, give your skin a good scrub after getting into the dirt or muddy water, and pull out a mask if you're using a hose or high-pressure cleaner around dirt," Murdoch said.
If you're immunocompromised and you get a chest infection or a fever, it's essential to get medical help.
Anyone who's noticed non-healing wounds or persistent fevers over several weeks is advised to visit their doctor.
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